WIU Leatherneck Club Surpasses 700 Members for Fourth-Straight Year

MACOMB, Ill. – The Western Illinois Leatherneck Club reached its fourth-highest membership total in 19 years as the 2017-18 fiscal year closed on June 30. A total of 704 members joined The Leatherneck Club, contributing over $347,000 to WIU Athletics.

“The Leatherneck Club is vital to the success of the department,” said Interim Director of Athletics Danielle Surprenant. “It allows us the opportunity to enhance facilities, fund scholarships, and ultimately enhance the student-athlete experience. I want to thank the alumni, faculty, staff, parents, and community members for their continued support and contributions to the Leatherneck Club.”

From July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2018, a total of 704 households made a gift to The Leatherneck Club. It saw increases in two of its eight giving levels, as MVP ($5,000-9,999) donors increased from four to eight, and VIP ($3,000-4,999) donors increased from 10 to 14.

For the first time in several years, the athletic department’s staff participation in the Leatherneck Club was a perfect 100 percent as every full-time member, well over 50 individuals, made a gift.

“Our coaches and staff understand the importance of the Leatherneck Club and see the impact it has our student-athletes each and every day. To have 100 percent participation from within the department is incredible, and it goes to show that they are committed to providing the best possible experience for our student-athletes.”

Founded in 1971, the Leatherneck Club is the primary fundraising program of Western Illinois University Athletics. It provides annual funding for more than 400 deserving student-athletes, allowing them to excel in the classroom and compete at the NCAA Division I level.

Leatherneck Club membership benefits, including parking passes, will be mailed in August. Visit the 2018-2019 benefits chart for more information on the Leatherneck Club giving levels.